13 best i3 processors

The Intel Core i3 processors are a family of central processing units (CPUs) developed by Intel, one of the leading manufacturers of computer processors. These CPUs are designed for a range of computing devices, including laptops and desktop computers. Here's what you need to know about Intel Core i3 processors:

Architecture: Intel Core i3 processors are based on the same microarchitecture as other Intel Core processors, including Core i5 and Core i7. They are part of the "Intel Core" series of processors.
Performance Tier: The Core i3 processors are positioned as entry-level or budget-friendly processors within the Intel Core lineup. They offer a balance of performance and power efficiency.
Cores and Threads: Core i3 processors typically have two or four cores, depending on the specific model. Each core can handle two threads, thanks to Hyper-Threading technology, which allows for better multitasking performance.
Clock Speed: The clock speed of Core i3 processors varies between models but generally falls within a moderate range. These processors may have base clock speeds ranging from 2.0 GHz to 4.0 GHz or more.
Cache: Core i3 processors come with an onboard cache memory, typically in the range of 3MB to 8MB, which helps speed up data access for frequently used instructions and data.
Graphics: Many Core i3 processors feature integrated graphics, known as Intel HD Graphics. This integrated GPU is suitable for everyday tasks, but it may not handle demanding gaming or professional graphics work as well as dedicated graphics cards.
Thermal Design Power (TDP): The TDP of Core i3 processors is relatively low, which means they are power-efficient and generate less heat compared to higher-end CPUs. This makes them suitable for thin and light laptops and small form factor desktops.
Socket Compatibility: Core i3 processors use various socket types depending on the generation. For example, some may use the LGA 1151 socket for desktops, while others use the BGA package for laptops. Compatibility with a specific motherboard is essential when upgrading or building a computer.
Usage: Core i3 processors are designed for everyday computing tasks such as web browsing, office applications, multimedia playback, and light gaming. They are suitable for budget-friendly laptops and desktops for users who don't require high-end processing power.
Upgradability: In desktop systems, some Core i3 processors can be upgraded to more powerful CPUs from the same generation, offering a potential performance boost without replacing the entire motherboard.

It's important to note that Intel continuously releases new generations of processors, and each generation may introduce improvements in performance, power efficiency, and features. When considering a computer with a Core i3 processor, it's a good idea to check the specific model and generation to understand its capabilities and limitations for your intended use.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best i3 processors on the market

Intel Core i3-10100 Desktop Processor 4 Cores up to 4.3 GHz LGA1200 (Intel 400 Series Chipset) 65W, Model Number: BX8070110100

Intel

Based on 933 reviews Check latest price

Product description

10th Gen Intel Core i3-10100 desktop processor optimized for everyday computing. Cooler included in the box. ONLY compatible with 400 series chipset based motherboard. 65W.

4 Cores / 8 Threads
Socket Type LGA 1200
Up to 4.3 GHz
Compatible with Intel 400 series chipset based motherboards
Intel Optane Memory Support
Cooler Included

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this cpu come with integrated graphics
Answer:	Not one person on Amazon got any shipment. I think there was never any stock from Intel. Only 50 units shipped out to Youtube reviewers a month ago and then Intel say can't disclose any testing results till after October 19th. October 19th arrives but due to an Intel sponsored reviewer skewing the results in Intel's favor they feel it's better to not ship out the CPUs so no one can verify their own results for comparison to prove it was biased. Regardless I still want the CPU I Pre-ordered. Give me my octacore CPU damn it!
Question:	does it come with stock cooler
Answer:	I ordered on 10/20 and had to cancel it today on 11/13 and order it from newegg because they said the estimated date is 12/20. I don't think you should even bother ordering the i9 from amazon if you want it by any reasonable date....
Question:	Does this support ddr4 ram
Answer:	The Intel boxed (retail) 7700 comes with an Intel 5 year warranty.
Question:	Does this include thermal paste to install the GPU
Answer:	Yes a stock fan is included.

Intel Core i3-9100 Desktop Processor 4 Cores up to 4.2 GHz LGA1151 300 Series 65W

Intel

Based on 381 reviews Check latest price

Product description

9th Gen Intel Core i3-9100 desktop processor with Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0. Offers mainstream performance for exceptional overall productivity. Thermal solution included in the box. Only compatible with Intel 300 Series chipset based motherboards. 65W. Graphics Video Max Memory 64 GB.

4 Cores /4 Threads
Up to 4.2 GHz
Compatible with Intel 300 Series chipset based motherboards
Bios update may be required for motherboard compatibility
Supports Intel Optane Memory

User questions & answers

Question:	Does it include a fan
Answer:	Yes, but it bottlenecks the higher speeds.
Question:	este procesador es con graficos
Answer:	The stock cooler that came with mine has thermal paste already applied. Unless you're wanting to use a different CPU cooler, you won't need thermal paste.
Question:	Does this include a stock cooler
Answer:	I pre-order from new-egg , from the siliconlottery website the 9900K will be ETA on novermber 11 ( was 10/26)
Question:	does this have integrated graphics
Answer:	I also ordered one from b&h since I didn’t know when my preorder would be available from amazon. I ordered it on 10/8 and they still haven’t shipped it either. It was said to have an estimated ship date of 10/20 but like my amazon order it has not been shipped and i still have absolutely no updates on the order. Very odd that everyone is in the same boat.

Intel Core i3-8100 Desktop Processor 4 Cores up to 3.6 GHz Turbo Unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W

Intel

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications Mfr Part Number BX80684I38100 Model Intel Core i3-8100 Processor Core Name Coffee Lake Core Count 4 Thread Count 4 Clock Speed 3 6 GHz Cache 6 MB DMI3 8 0 GT/s Lithography 14 nm Socket LGA 1151 Max Thermal Design Power 65 W Memory Type DDR4-2400 Processor Graphics Intel UHD Graphics 630 Graphics Base Frequency 350 00 MHz Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency 1 10 GHz Max CPU Configuration 1 Advanced Technologies ‹ Intel Optane Memory Supported Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x) Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d) Intel VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT) Intel 64 Instruction Set 64-bit Instruction Set Extensions SSE4 1/4 2 AVX2 Idle States Enhanced Intel Speed Step Technology Thermal Monitoring Technologies Intel Identity Protection Technology Intel AES New Instructions Secure Key Intel Software Guard Extensions (Intel SGX) Intel Memory Protection Extensions (Intel MPX) Intel OS Guard Execute Disable Bit Intel Boot Guard

Intel UHD Graphics 630
Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
Cores: 4, Threads: 4
3.60 GHz Base Frequency / 6 MB Cache
Intel Optane Memory Supported
System Ram Type: ddr4_sdram

User questions & answers

Question:	Amazon's description says 95w, Intel's for the same chip says 65w. Please confirm correct
Answer:	yes, it does
Question:	Does this come with cpu cooler
Answer:	Yes it does have Intel graphics integrated
Question:	does it come with the sticker
Answer:	Yes, and the graphics are reasonable for basic computing and easy gaming at 1080p. So, too, the processor itself: Add a mid-level graphics card and it does really well with gaming at 1080p. Very impressed, coming from an 8-core AMD FX 8370 (990FX Gaming motherboard).
Question:	What cooler does it contain? Fan or fan with heatsink
Answer:	Hello, yes it comes with a stock cooling fan 👍 Hope this helps 😄

Intel Core i3-7100 7th Gen Core Desktop Processor 3M Cache,3.90 GHz (BX80677I37100)

Intel

Based on 782 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Intel Core i3-7100 7th Gen Core Desktop Processor 3M Cache,3.90 GHz (BX80677I37100)

Lightning responsiveness. Graphics Base Frequency 350 MHz
Work effortlessly
Security protection

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this CPU have hyper threading
Answer:	yes, it comes with a sticker that says intel i7 8th gen
Question:	Should I get the core i3-7100 or the Pentium G4560 (for the current prices
Answer:	This product comes in 3 different options, i3-8100, i3-8300 & the i3-8350K. The i3-8100 & the i3-8300 DOES INCLUDE a heatsink/fan with pre-applied thermal paste while the i3-8350K DOES NOT INCLUDE a a heatsink/fan. The product pictures show the back of the box & on the 8100 or the 8300, it says "Contents: Intel processor witrh a thermal solution, three-year Limited Warranty and instructions" while the 8350K says "Contents: Intel processor, three-year Limited Warranty and instructions". I can confirm this since I am a system builder & have ordered all 3 options in the recent past. If you are purchasing the i3-8350K, the K means it is unlocked & can be overclocked if you use a Z370 motherboard like this one https://amzn.to/2oUSBVP & this fan https://amzn.to/2oO4oFj has been my go to fan with the 8350K. Hope this helps.
Question:	Will this work with this motherboard? https://www.amazon.com/dp/b019eyynp0/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pc_ns_ttl?_encoding=utf8&colid=380habi5us7l&coliid=ik0if8jxt
Answer:	Mine did include a fan and so far it is nice and quiet. I stopped using AMD CPUs because their fans, when they the cpu got ramped up made quite a racket. So far I have found the Intel ones to be much better.
Question:	does this come with thermal paste? also a Fan
Answer:	Si

Intel Core i3-3220 Processor (3M Cache, 3.30 GHz) BX80637i33220 (Renewed)

Intel

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Max Memory Bandwidth, 25.6 GB s

Process Type: Intel Core i3 Processor i3-3220
Core Count: 2
Clock Speed: 3.3 GHz
Intel Smart Cache: 3 MB
Max Memory Bandwidth: 25.6 GB/s
Socket: LGA1155

User questions & answers

Question:	What socket does this work on
Answer:	65w
Question:	Does this come with a stock cooler
Answer:	fan and cooler included on non k cpus

Intel NUC 10 Performance Kit – Intel Core i3 Processor (Tall Chassis)

Intel

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Intel NUC Kit, NUC10i3FNH, w/ US cord, single pack

Target Usage: Home Office, Home Theater PC, Casual Gaming
10th Generation Intel Core i3-10110U (NUC10i3FNH1) with Intel UHD Graphics, 300 MHz – 1. 0 GHz
Supports Microsoft Windows* 10 logo’d, compatible with various Linux distros
Supports up to 3 displays; HDMI 2. 0a; USB-C (DP1. 2); 6 USB Ports

User questions & answers

Question:	Can this be used with Roon
Answer:	Yes, it does. It has 2 cores and 4 threads. Link to Intel is http://ark.intel.com/products/97455/Intel-Core-i3-7100-Processor-3M-Cache-3_90-GHz.
Question:	Does this ship with an operating system
Answer:	Higher processor speed and lower wattage made the i3 my choice over the G4560.
Question:	I'm interested in using my pc for photo editing with lightroom, topaz, on1, affinity, nik collection software. is this up to the task
Answer:	If you already have the board, and a 6th generation processor, you'll need to flash to the most recent BIOS before installing the i3-7100. However, if you already have a 6th generation chip, their isn't much point in buying the i3 7100. If you don't have a board, find a Z270, H270, or B250 board instead. It will work without flashing the BIOS.
Question:	Does this come with ram preinstalled or am i on my own for memory
Answer:	Yes and Yes

Intel Core i3-10320 Desktop Processor 4 Cores up to 4.6 GHz LGA1200 (Intel 400 Series chipset) 65W, Model Number: BX8070110320

Intel

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

10th Gen Intel Core i3-10320 desktop processor optimized for everyday computing. Cooler included in the box. ONLY compatible with 400 series chipset based motherboard. 65W.

4 Cores / 8 Threads
Socket Type LGA 1200
Up to 4. 6 GHz
Compatible with Intel 400 series chipset based motherboards
Intel Optane Memory Support
Cooler Included

Intel Corp. BX80662I36100T Core i3 6100T Processor LV (Renewed)

Intel

Check latest price

Boxed Intel Core i3-6100T Processor (3M Cache, 3
Design that delivers high availability, scalability, and for maximum flexibility and price/performance
Made in China

Intel Core i3-5005U Processor U55 Beelink Mini PC Windows 10 Pro, 8GB RAM 128GB SSD, 4K HD Dual HDMI USB 3.0 Port, Dual Band WiFi Gigabit Ethernet BT 4.2 (8gb+128GB/intel core i3-5005U)…

Beelink

Check latest price

Product description

💡Tips to better use this mini pc:

1. It supports Auto Power On after Power Failure.

2. If there are following problems, please contact:[email protected](first choose) , or our powerful forum:www.bee-link.com/forum.php.

I. System installation or activation

II.No drivers after update Linux installation System Config:

💡Model: Beelink U55

Processor: Intel core i3-5005U

OS: Windows 10 Pro pre-installed

RAM: 8GB(Supports extended)

Disk: 128GB SSD(Supports extended)

Processor Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 5500

Scenario Design Power(SDP): 15W

Ethernet: 1000Mbps LAN

WiFi: IEEE 802.11/b/g/n/ac, 2.4+5.8G

Antenna: Built-in antenna for WiFi

Bluetooth: 4.0

Expand Memory: SD card: Micro SD Card 128GB

SSD:M.2(NGFF) 2280 or 2242 SSD, up to 1TB HDD: up to 2TB

💡Ports:

2* HDMI Port

1* Type-C Port

2* USB 3.0 Port

2* USB 2.0 Port

1* RJ45 Port

1* Audio Jack (HP&MIC)

1* micro SD Card slot

💡Package:

1* Beelink U55 Mini PC

2* HDMI Cables(20cm & 80cm)

1* Power adapter

1* Mounting bracket

1* Manual

🚀Common Q&A

Q1: The displays were not as clear as I think, or unsuitable with the screen?

A1: It may be caused by the display resolution, please click the Desktop right button- display settings-display -display resolution. Change it to 1920x1080.

Q2: Can this run games?

A2: Our product can support some small web games, but it is more suitable for dealing with daily office work, browsing the web and watching videos

Q3: What should I do if I have a problem with the product?

A3: As a responsible seller, we value the shopping experience of every customer. If you have any problems with the product you purchased, please contact us through order details or [email protected]. This is fastest way.

【Better Fast Processor】 The Small Mini Pc Pre-Installe With Windows 10 Pro 64-Bits Os , And Equips With Inter Core I3-5005u 2.0ghz CPU ( More Faster Than J4105),Power Consumption Is Greatly Reduced At Constant Frequency, And Loaded With 8gb DDR3L Ram, 128gb SSD, Creates Smoothly Experience For Your Visually Home Entertainment, Streaming Video, Web Browsing, And Work，Say Goodbye To The System Freezing And Buffering.
【Large Expandable Storage】The Mini Desktop Computer Designed With 8gb DDR3L Ram /128gb SSD, It Can Support M.2 NGFF 2280 SSD Up To 1tb, 2.5” HDD Up To 2tb And A Micro SD Card Up To 128gb, And Also You Can Add USB Hard Drive Port To Expand 2T Memory.
【Upgraded Function & I/O Specifications】The Micro PC Uses Our Patented Cooling Design Technology Perfect Make Mini Pc Quiet Performer Which Keeps Noise Levels Down. Unique Appearance Interface Designed 2 X 2.0 USB Ports, 2 X USB 3.0 Ports ,1 X Gigabit Ethernet Port,1 X Micro SD Card Port,2 X HDMI Port ,1 X USB Type C With Minimizes Cable Clutter And Delivers. Power To Monitors, Projectors, And Mobile Devices，And Support Wake On LAN, PXE Boot, Auto Power On.
【Dual Display & Intel Hd Graphics】The Micro Computer Comes With 4k@30ghz Ultra High Definition Streaming Capability, Giving You A Best-In-Class Television Experience With True-To-Life Picture Quality, Which Can Be Used As A Media Center To Enjoy Tv Shows Or Games. Dual DHMI 1.4 Ports Easily Connecting Two Monitors, which can Simplify And Double Your Work Efficiency.
【Durable And Reliable Lifetime Service】Our Group Has Been Dedicating To The Production And R&D Design Of Mini Pc For Many Years. And All Our Products Have Passed Strict Inspesction Before Outgoing. If You Have Any Questions, Please Don’t Hesitate To Contact Us. And We Are 100% Guaranteed To Solve Your Problems. We Offer Lifetime Technical Support, 1 Year Free Warranty, and 7 Days/ 24 Hours Serving. All Of Our Products Obtained FCC, CE ROSH Certifications

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the maximum capacity of the drives firmware limited? I would like to put a 5tb Hdd in if possible
Answer:	Mine didn't

Intel NUC 10 Performance Kit – Intel Core i3 Processor (Sleek Chassis)

Intel

Based on 23 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Intel NUC Kit, NUC10i3FNK, w/ US cord, single pack

Target Usage Home Office Home Theater PC Casual Gaming
10th Generation Intel Core i3-10110U (NUC10i3FNK1) with Intel UHD Graphics 300 MHz – 1 0 GHz
Supports Microsoft Windows* 10 logo’d compatible with various Linux distros
Supports up to 3 displays HDMI 2 0a USB-C (DP1 2) 6 USB Ports

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this have wifi built in? or, do i need to buy more parts to get wifi working
Answer:	This Processor on works on LGA 1155

Intel 3.70 GHz Core i3-6100 3M Cache Processor (BX80662I36100)

Intel

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Boxed Intel Core i3-6100 Processor (3M Cache, 3.70 GHz) FC-LGA14C

Dual-Core with Hyper-Threading Technology. Processor Base Frequency: 3.70 GHz. Cache: 3 MB SmartCache. Bus Speed: 8 GT/s DMI3. TDP: 51 W.
Intel HD Graphics 530 with 4k support (at 60 hz)
DDR4/DDR3L memory supported
Socket FCLGA-1151. Memory Types :DDR4-1866/2133, DDR3L-1333/1600 at 1.35V
Instruction Set Extensions: SSE4.1/4.2, AVX, AVX2, AES, VT-x, VT-d, Secure Key. Please Note: Kindly refer the Specification Sheet which contains the list of compatible boards before use.

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this come with a fan in the box
Answer:	That’s how I’m using mine.
Question:	Can i use this on a enthuastic gaming intel z170a lga 1151 ddr4 usb 3.1 atx motherboard (z170a gaming m
Answer:	It does not have an operating system, hard drive, or RAM.
Question:	On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best) what would you rate the stock cooler
Answer:	Yes - BUT, it won't handle tough 3D tasks like gaming or 3D rendering as well. It is also not a complete PC. You will need to buy an SSD drive, RAM, and an operating system.
Question:	Does this i3 skylake cpu come with a cooling fan or do you need to buy an after market one
Answer:	Unclear why it is is called a 'Performance Kit', but I purchased 2 of these and it is barebone (no RAM or Hard Drive included).

Product features

Get to Know the Intel 6th Generation Core i3-6100 Processor

The 6th generation Intel Core processor is based on the Skylake micro architecture and built with 14nm manufacturing process. It comes packed with advanced features to take your productivity, creativity and 3D gaming to the next level. And, by enabling new exciting Windows 10 features, the 6th generation Intel Core processor empowers you to unleash your imagination and explore the possibilities.

Intel Core i3-9350KF Desktop Processor 4 Core Up to 4.6GHz Unlocked Without Processor Graphics LGA1151 (999F4L)

Intel

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

9th Gen Intel Core i3-9350kf, unlocked, without processor graphics. Great value for entry level gaming, creating, and overclocking. Features Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0. Discrete graphics required. Thermal solution not included in the box. Only compatible with 300 Series chipset based motherboard. 91W.